Rick LawingerMineral PointGMHOF 1983

Rick Lawinger, a name that will stay in the wrestling historical records. Rick exemplifies a drive and determination that every wrestling coach wishes they could see or instill in their wrestlers. It is fitting that Rick Lawinger be inducted to the Hall of Fame.

Al Bauman, from Mineral Point and Rick's high school wrestling coach is quoted as saying, "Rick belongs in the Hall of Fame as a last of a group of wrestlers recruited by George Martin and the first to accomplish George's dream of an NCAA championship." It is fitting that Wisconsin's first NCAA championship be a product of Wisconsin. Duane Kleven from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and Rick's collegiate coach, states, "I believe that Rick Lawinger is the best single example of George Martin's effort to build Wisconsin wrestling, a pure Wisconsin product going all the way to the top of the national wrestling world, then going on to be a successful Wisconsin wrestling coach."

While at Mineral Point High School from 1966-1970, Rick was a WIAA State Champion, Tri-State Champion and High School All-American. Other accomplishments while at the University of Wisconsin-Madison were three times Most Valuable team member - 1972-73-74, three times Most Dedicated - 1972-73-74, two times Most Takedowns - 1973-74, most falls - 1974, two times Captain - 1973-74, two times Big Ten Champion and a career record of 130-17-1.

In international competition Rick competed in the 1973 World University Games. Rick was a Bronze Medallist in Moscow, Russia.

Rich retired from competition in 1974 and began coaching at River Valley High School. His teams were rated number one both in 1978 and 1979. His team compiled a dual meet record of 65-9. His teams placed in the top 5 three times and earned the runner-up trophy in 1978. He coached eleven state place winners including two-time state champion Dennis Limmex.

Rick retired from coaching in 1980 to run his own business in Spring Green, Wisconsin.